80 . NAT. ORDER. PERSONAT.E. 



Propagation and Culture. The mode of propagation in the two 

 first species is by the roots, which multiply easily, being parted in 

 autumn or early in spring, and planted where they are to remain 

 The third sort must be raised annually from the seed, by sowing il 

 in the autumn as soon as it is perfectly ripe. These plants will all 

 rise in the following spring, and may be planted out in the borders 

 and patches during the summer months. They are hardy and will 

 endure almost any season, and succeed well in most soils and situa- 

 tions. 



These plants are all highly ornamental, and produce a most beau- 

 tiful effect for two or three months in autumn, after the principal 

 bloom of most others is over ; and from being of different colors, 

 produce a great variety when planted in the borders of walks and 

 pleasure-grounds. 



Medical Properties and Uses. These plants all possess tonic, 

 astringent, and stimulating properties. They are mostly used in 

 connection with other agents in the form of Bitters, Tinctures and 

 Decoctions. The leaves and heads are the parts recommended for 

 use ; they are highly bitter, but of a pleasant nature, and give out 

 their virtues both to water and alcohol. The Canadians and North- 

 western Indians have long made use of these plants in the treatment 

 of Liver complaints, Dyspepsia, Syphilis, and as a tonic to improve 

 and correct the tone of the stomach. It should be gathered in the 

 fall when the flower is in blossom, as the plant then possesses more 

 virtues than at other times, and should be placed in a shady situa- 

 tion to dry, out of the rays of the scorching sun. A tincture is 

 made by adding one ounce of the dried leaves to one quart of dilu- 

 ted alcohol ; the dose of which is one tea-spoonful, from twice to 

 three times a day. An extract is prepared by evaporation of either 

 the tincture or decoction. 



